Are AM-496 and Staff Instructors required to use an audible altimeter when jumping?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Only during night jumps
• D. Only for training purposes

Answer: (A)

AM-496 and Staff Instructors are indeed required to use an audible altimeter when jumping. The primary purpose of an audible altimeter is to provide a secondary method of altitude awareness during freefall. This is especially critical as it helps ensure that jumpers have an additional layer of safety by alerting them at preset altitudes, thus minimizing the risk of a dangerous situation due to a lack of situational awareness regarding height.

The use of an audible altimeter is standard practice to enhance safety protocols, particularly for personnel who are responsible for instructing others or leading jumps. Their heightened responsibility in ensuring the safety of all jumpers during operations necessitates that they employ all available safety measures, which includes using an audible altimeter.

While the other options suggest varying conditions for the use of an audible altimeter, none negate the overarching requirement for safety, especially for those in leadership and instructive roles within jump operations. Thus, the standing rule is for their consistent use by AM-496 and Staff Instructors during all jumps.